Brigades were called to the
“The main chemical involved is engine oil and the difficulty is that it burns very, very hot and is something that can not be put out with just water alone,” CFA Operations Officer Mark Kennedy said.
During the height of the fire more than 100 firefighters from CFA and MFB worked to control the blaze, which was also threatening neighbouring factories.
OO Kennedy said while foam was being used to try and douse the fire at TriTech Lubricants, crews were also using water to cool and protect nearby buildings – in particular a glass manufacturing factory that contained hydrogen gas on-site.
“Hydrogen is a highly flammable gas so it had the potential to make this fire even more significant,” he said.
“While there was some damage to neighbouring factories, we were able to shut off the gas and essentially save these buildings.”
OO Kennedy said the bulk of the fire was brought under control about 4.30am this morning.
CFA crews remained on scene through the morning to monitor hot spots.
Police and fire investigators are attending the scene to try and determine the cause of the blaze.
Listen to press conference held earlier today with OO Kennedy:
Melbourne Water have made this statement in relation to cleanup efforts associated with the incident.
See also: Dandenong fire - the day after
Images by Keith Pakenham - CFA Strategic Communications
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